By: Lackson Kanyoza
Eighty-three women have qualified to become Referees after a five-day women football referee course that was held in all the three regions of the country.
The initiative has opened a new chapter in women’s football, as women will now take part in officiating football matches across the country.
In an interview with The Malawi Star,(NWFA) Chairperson, Severia Chalira said she was impressed with turn-up.
“We registered 90 participants in all the three regions but out of that number, at least 84 women have graduated. The other six failed due to various reasons.
“As a committee we are very impressed that the course has ended well and we believe that the knowledge these women have acquired will help to improve our football standards in as match officiating is concerned,” said Chalera.
She, however, said they will not rush to abandon the male referees in women’s football until the new crop of female referees gains enough experience.
She further added, “We are starting FAM League on the 16th of April so the ladies will be assisting in the games until they gain experience. We also have the Presidential Cup on the cards so we will give opportunities to the participants to improve their skills as they continue learning every Saturday with the Referees Association.”
Women aged between 18 and 30 are encouraged to take part in the training. I was wonderful to see retired women footballers and teachers taking part in the courses.
Renowned referees Bester Kalombo, Martha Nyekanyeka and Zuza Nyondo trained the new crop of female referees at Mpira Stadium-Blantyre, Lilongwe Community Centre Ground and Luwinga Technical Centre in Mzuzu respectively.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.